An investigation has been launched into her death and her next of kin have been informed.

A man who was with the woman was also taken ill but remains in hospital in a stable condition.

Detective constable Marius York from Force CID at Reading who is investigating the incident, said: “We believe the death of the woman may be drugs-related, and that potentially she died as a result of a contaminated batch of drugs.

“I would of course urge everyone to steer well clear of any illegal drug use, but following this incident, we have concerns that there may be contaminated drugs in the Reading community which have the potential to cause more people serious illness or death.

“I would like to speak to anyone who has any information about this incident, or who may be able to help us to establish where these drugs have come from.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.